Mexico’s National Electoral Institute: Lessons from Current Progress, Shortcomings, and Citizen Response
by Juan Sandoval
Category: Social Sciences
Abstract – The National Electoral Institute (INE) has been a driving force for democratization in Mexico and a prevalent actor in both federal and regional elections. Previously known as the Federal Electoral Institute (IFE) and reformed in 2014, this independent electoral commission has gone beyond ensuring safe elections on ballot day; the INE expanded access to voting, made significant strides for gender equity in government, regulated campaigning, and attempted to ensure fair elections in Mexico. As the INE grows and develops its functions and role in the country, both successes and difficulties have arisen. This systematic literature review employed the academic database, Google Scholar, and other relevant articles to understand the regulatory agency’s accomplishments and failures and what both the INE and other electoral commissions can learn from them. Media regulation, working conditions, and regional mismanagement are among some of the topics explored. Public perception of the organization is also examined, investigating the root causes for the trust, or lack thereof, in the INE and what can be done to best legitimize the agency in order to serve its constituents best.